Oscar C. Camacho

Oscar Camacho, of Pelham, New York, passed away on August 12, 2025, at Calvary Hospital at the age of 74.

Born in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, to Oscar and Norma Camacho, Oscar was one of two children. He graduated from Aviation High School in Long Island City, NY, and went on to attend the City University of New York. While still in school, Oscar made the life-changing decision to join the United States Air Force, where he served his country with dedication and pride.

Oscar’s love story with his wife, Maria, began when they were just 11 years old — a connection that blossomed into a lifetime of devotion. They were married at age 19 and together they raised three children, each of whom was the center of Oscar’s world. They recently celebrated their 54th Wedding Anniversary and doted on their grandchildren.

Throughout his career, Oscar held roles that reflected his deep commitment to community service. He founded the Division for Youth on the Upper West Side, worked in the Governor’s Office under Mario Cuomo, served as Assistant Commissioner to the Sheriff’s Department and the Department of Probation, and lastly at NYCHA until his retirement in 2021. In every position, Oscar’s leadership and compassion left a lasting impact and lifelong friendships.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, and community activist, Oscar also found joy and expression in photography, a passion through which he captured the beauty of life around him. A cherished soul who found his heart’s home on Manhattan's iconic Upper West Side. This vibrant enclave, known for its rich tapestry of culture and diversity, was his sanctuary and his muse. He and his family thrived amidst its dazzling lights, the hum of its bustling streets, and the endless symphony of life that played out on every corner. From the world-class entertainment that captured imaginations, to the music resounding from El Barrio and the aromatic delights of its mouthwatering cuisines that brought joy to his palate, the Upper West Side was not just where he lived, it was where he truly embraced the very essence of New York's spirit: dynamic, inspiring, and endlessly alive. He enjoyed his life, his family and friends, and other hobbies like carpentry, Science Fiction movies, comedy, music, salsa dancing, family outings, going to Church with his wife and a good beer with friends. He was abundantly and sufficiently blessed, and he knew it!

Oscar will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his tireless service to others, and his ability to see and share the world’s moments of grace.

Oscar is survived by his wife Maria, his daughters, Cristina and Beatriz (and son-in law Robert), and his grandchildren, Bobby and Jayden.

He is predeceased by his only son, Jesse, and will be laid to rest alongside him.

A celebration of Oscar’s life will take place at the Pelham Funeral Home, located at 64 Lincoln Ave., Pelham N.Y., on Friday August 15, 2025, between the hours of 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, located at 575 Fowler Ave, Pelham NY., 10803 on Saturday August 16, 2025, at 10:00am. Interment will follow at Kensico Cemetery.